Hamster Demodectic Mange Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Demodectic mange (demodicosis) in hamsters is a parasitic skin disease caused by Demodex mites that inhabit the skin. Two species affect Syrian hamsters: Demodex aurati (long-bodied, inhabits hair follicles) and Demodex criceti (short-bodied, inhabits keratin of the epidermal surface). These mites are normal commensal fauna in healthy hamsters but become pathogenic when the host is immunocompromised.

Clinical demodicosis in hamsters is almost always secondary to an underlying immunosuppressive condition, making identification of predisposing factors essential for effective management. The presence of clinical signs should prompt investigation for underlying disease processes such as neoplasia, hyperadrenocorticism, or chronic organ failure.

Etiology and Parasite Biology

Causative Agents

Two species of Demodex mites cause demodicosis in Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). These mites are highly host-specific and are NOT zoonotic.